SPS Mission StatementStudents engage in a range of educational experiences to become informed, adaptive problem solvers who effectively communicate, rise to challenges, and are committed to improve themselves and their communities.

Course offerings in Agriculture Science and Technology

AGRICULTURE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY COURSE OFFERINGS

AGRICULTURE MECHANICS involves the operation and maintenance of equipment used in landscaping and agricultural production. It also includes the development of skills in small engine repair, construction, and system design as they relate to agriculture.

ANIMAL SCIENCE involves the study of animal health and nutrition, livestock and horse production as well as genetics and reproduction of various species of domestic animals. It also includes instruction in animal science areas such as small animal care, pet grooming and veterinary services.

NATURAL RESOURCES-ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE involves the study of forestry, wildlife conservation and management, land management, aquaculture and water resources. The curriculum also addresses economic and social issues related to the environment including conservation of open space and farmland, energy resources and human impact on the environment.

PLANT SCIENCE involves the study of the growth requirements of plants including nutrition, management, pest control and biotechnology. It also includes the development of skills in floral design, landscape design and construction, and greenhouse crop production.

CAREER PREPARATION, RECORD-KEEPING AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT involves the exploration of agricultural career opportunities, resume writing and preparation for job interviews as well as record-keeping skills. Course content includes the development of skills and attitudes necessary to be successful at work. Leadership development covers public speaking, parliamentary procedure and interpersonal skills.

Sequence of Courses

Agriculture Science and Technology is a four year, sequential program.

Ag Sci 1 Grade 9 Students will explore a wide range of agricultural career areas and will develop basic skills in all areas of the agriculture curriculum. In addition to class/lab work, students will participate in the Supervised Agriculture Experience Program and leadership activities.

Ag Sci II Grade 10 Students will have the opportunity to choose units related to their primary areas of interest and will also take required units in public speaking, equipment operation and workplace safety. In addition to class/lab work, practical experience is required in either an agriculture-related job or an individual project.

Advanced Ag Grade 11/12 Students will concentrate in one of the following areas: Agriculture Mechanics/Turf Management, Animal Science, Natural Resources/Environmental Science or Plant Science with the opportunity for selection of units outside their agricultural major (depending on availability of space in the unit). Students will be required to develop more advanced skills through their Supervised Agriculture Experience program.

Highly motivated students may select advanced course work to earn college credit and/or industry certification.

UConn Horticulture Grade 11/12 This is a comprehensive course covering all aspects of plant production and the horticulture industry. The curriculum includes the content of the University of Connecticut course “Horticulture 1101”. Students who successfully complete this course earn three credits from UConn that are transferrable to other institutions.

UConn Floral Art Grade 11/12 Students enrolled in this course focus on the principles of design, identification and care of floral products and have extensive opportunities to develop their design skills. The curriculum includes the content of the University of Connecticut course “Horticulture 2520”. Students who successfully complete this course earn two credits from UConn that are transferrable to other institutions.

Veterinary Technology Grade 11/12 Students interested in veterinary science will focus on the technical content as well as the laboratory skills needed to pursue this career path. Students who successfully complete class content and laboratory hours will be eligible to take the exam for the Certified Veterinary Assistant designation.

The Southington Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, religion or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Non-discrimination Statement